45pc dearness allowance for journalists

The government has directed all news media outlets, including print media and news agencies, to provide 45 percent dearness allowance to their staff, including journalists and other employees, under the 9th wage board.

The information ministry issued a notification yesterday with the directive. It said the order will come into effect from March 1 of this year.

The interim benefit will be adjusted with the salary structure later.

State Minister for Information Tarana Halim sought cooperation of all to implement the directive.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina would hand over financial aid to journalists in hardship, and to the families of dead and sick journalists at her office on September 19, she said.